A bail application for republican political leader Gerry McGeough has
been postponed after lawyers for the British Crown claimed that either
Germany or the USA might seek to have him extradited.

Mr McGeough, who opposes the current political process, was
controversially arrested at the Omagh election count centre earlier
this month by the PSNI police in relation to charges dating from 1981.

The action was criticised as “political policing” by Sinn Féin and as
“internment” by McGeough’s supporters, who have begun a campaign to
have him released.

The campaign’s website, www.freegerry.com, described the Crown lawyer’s
claims as “a sham”, pointing out that both Germany and the USA had
released Mr McGeough after he had served a prison sentence in both
countries.

“This is a continuation of internment by remand and a blatant act of
political repression against McGeough because of his outspoken
opposition to British rule and the re-named crown constabulary,” the
statement added.

A second republican who was arrested in connection with the case was
released on bail after two alleged witnesses withdrew their statements.

Tyrone man Vincent McAnespie, whose brother Aidan was shot dead by the
Crown forces, was arrested within an hour of Mr McGeough’s arrest.

Crown prosecutor David Reid claimed the alleged witnesses withdrew
their statements because of “implied threats”.

“One of them was out shopping and was called a traitor,” he said.

Des Fahy, defending, said Mr McAnespie denied any involvement in the
offences and had no part in approaches to the two witnesses.

“It is my understanding the witnesses have spoken with their parish
priest and solicitor and have made it clear that they were not
motivated or driven by fear or intimidation in the withdrawal of the
statements,” he said.

Mr McAnespie was freed on his own bail of five thousands pounds with
two sureties of five thousands pounds.